Welcome to SEIU 2015’s Green@Home Clean Energy Program!
SEIU Green@Home is a union sponsored program to help our members and their families access clean energy benefits for transportation and home energy needs. SEIU is partnering with Access Clean California, a statewide program sponsored by the California Air Resources Board that connects income-qualified residents with clean energy and transportation benefits.
SEIU’s goal in partnering with the ACC is to make access to environmentally-friendly transportation/technology easier for Union members and their families.
At Access Clean CA, we believe that everyone should have access to clean, reliable transportation. Through our user-friendly web platform, personalized case management, and intentional community-based outreach, we ensure clean energy grants and rebates are channeled to priority communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when I visit the site?
- You can explore various programs and learn more about clean transportation benefits.
- Use the Benefits Finder. After answering a few questions about your household, income, transportation and energy needs you’ll receive a list of programs that you may qualify for and can begin your application if you desire.
How long does it take? What if I’m not ready to buy a vehicle or replace my old vehicle right now?
- Demand for these programs is high. It can also take 4-6 months to process the applications so if you are considering a vehicle purchase later this year, it’s a great idea to see if you can qualify for one of these programs today. Filling out an application does not obligate you to purchase a vehicle, it simply determines whether you may be eligible for program benefits.
Will I get help on my application?
- Yes! Access Clean California has dedicated case managers who will contact you directly after your eligibility check. They provide follow-up and support to help you complete your application. You can also get additional support from the programs you apply to.
What do I need to complete the application?
- All programs will require you to sign an income verification form to confirm your income with the IRS. Other documentation is required, but it varies depending on the program(s) you select.
Will using this site affect my credit score?
- Checking your eligibility won’t affect your credit score at all.
- Many of the programs were made for people with low credit scores and can assist with affordable financing.
How many options are there for vehicles?
- Many common vehicle manufacturers sell hybrid, plug-in and battery electric vehicles such as Chevy, Ford, Subaru, Kia, Honda, Toyota, Nissan, VW, Hyundai, Tesla, Volvo, and Audi. See what’s available here https://www.motortrend.com/features/every-electric-car-you-can-buy/.
How far can I travel on a charge?
- Even EVs with lower capacity batteries can manage between 100 and 200 miles, which is plenty for day-to-day driving, including most commutes.
- There are now 3 levels of charging available. Level 1 charges between 3-5 miles per hour. Level 2 charges between 12-30 miles per hour. DC fast chargers charge 100-200 miles in 30 minutes.
- Most EV owners are able to also charge overnight using Level 1 or Level 2 chargers.
Aren’t electric vehicles small and slow?
- Even the more affordable electric cars offer spirited performance such as the Chevy Bolt, Nissan Leaf and Kia e-Niro which is a small SUV.
- There are now electric sedans, SUVs, and trucks!
Aren’t electric vehicles more expensive to buy?
- Some electric cars are expensive, but that applies to non-electric vehicles too. Because of increase in the supply, you are now able to purchase a used electric vehicle as well. The Access Clean California program can help put the cost of a new or used electric vehicle in reach.
What about maintenance costs?
- The average cost to fuel your vehicle is less using electricity than using gasoline. Maintenance costs are also much lower. See for yourself at https://chooseev.com/savings-calculator/.
Where can I charge my vehicle?
- You may be eligible for programs to pay for installation of a charging station at your home. In addition, there are many fee-based public charging stations. See what’s available where you live by visiting https://www.plugshare.com/. You may also be eligible for a voucher to pay for charging as well.
Why is SEIU2015 offering this program?
It is an injustice that in California your zip code, race and income often determine whether you will have access to clean air and water, be able to eat healthy food or live in a clean environment. Far too many of our members and their families live, work and play in communities that are polluted by large corporations who are often held unaccountable.
We believe that all Californians (regardless of race, color, national origin or income) deserve the right to clean air and water, healthy food and clean neighborhoods. This belief is called climate equity. Our commitment to climate equity is rooted in knowing that it is this nation’s poorest, most vulnerable communities that are the ones most impacted not just by pollution, but also by climate induced disasters made even worse by pre-existing environmental inequities. For instance, the last several years of fires devastating our state left many of our members without power. Some had to evacuate the people they care for, lost their homes, or suffered the health impacts of smoke and heat. Moreover, the fires not only add to already-existing pollution, but often worsen pre-existing conditions such as asthma and other lung issues. We want to help build better, more solid environmental foundations for California’s most vulnerable citizens and areas. Help us support and advocate for policies that expand access to clean air, water, food and healthy neighborhoods.
- Access Clean California supports residents of communities most impacted by pollution, tribal communities, and residents with lower incomes who can benefit from the cost savings making the switch to clean energy transportation.
- This program can help you to find all the funding and other benefits you are eligible for, get your applications started, and switch to an EV or other clean transportation that works for you.
- These programs are part of California’s efforts to get 5 million EVs on the road by 2030 and transition to 100% clean energy by 2045.
